Students who graduate from San Marcos High School’s Health Careers Academy (HCA) now have a direct pipeline to higher education close to home.
This new partnership between the Santa Barbara Unified School District and Westmont College — approved by the school district’s board on November 18, 2025 — includes guaranteed admission to the liberal arts college in Montecito and a minimum of $15,000 in financial aid.
“This partnership is a tremendous opportunity for our students and a powerful example of what local collaboration can achieve,” said San Marcos Principal Dare Holdren. “Our Health Careers Academy is preparing the next generation of healthcare professionals, and this agreement gives our dedicated students a clear, supportive path from high school to a top-tier college right here in our community.”…